Blue Bottle Coffee - Minatomirai Cafe — Restaurant in Yokohama

The staff is really nice and they all seem to speak English. Payment system is more updated than most places here, and although I didn't try it seems like you can actually pay with a contactless card(first place I find you can do this outside of Ikea).

Coffee is great, I've been trying to find a place where my espresso crazy Spanish friend likes the coffee, and this is the only one that makes her so happy she can only smile and nod. There are different kinds of milks for those with other tastes or any allergies/intolerances. Personally always liked the taste of oat milk in latte and here I could finally taste it again!

Sandwiches are a bit tiny and overpriced, but honestly that's what I expect from a more upscale place like this. Haven't tried them but despite their size they look very delicious.

Also happen to feel very at home at this cafe due to its location and design. Inside reminds me of scandinavian minimalistic and nature inspired design, and it hits all the right buttons for me, but that's personal. If you prefer tiny, cozy, old style cafés, this is not for you.

Just outside you have a very open space with a lot of(right now) gorgeous autumn trees and nice seating areas.

All in all...

This particular Blue Bottle was recommended to me as having great coffee, nice ambiance, and as a bonus - open at 8 AM.

Part of the so-called "third-wave" of American coffee chains, Blue Bottle matches the millennial aesthetic of open space and natural light from floor-to ceiling windows, and natural wood in appealing curves that has been likened to the feel of a forest to some. Although, depending on lighting conditions, can come across as sterile.

Offering a menu in both Japenese and English, I opted for the Seasonal Special: Coffee Cherry Fizz and year-round available: Overnight Oats. While offering seasonal beverages is a must, I am not convinced of the coffee cherry and fizzy carbonation combination, although it did pair well with the oats. Oh well, a drink for someone else to enjoy.

Please note that this is a self-serve café and you are expected to pick up and clean up after yourself. Also of note: a public unisex restroom is available...

I couldn’t help but appreciate how mesmerizing the view in autumn of the Grand Mall Park was from the inside of this Blue Bottle branch. The colors of the store’s interior blended well with the autumn leaves. With only a glass wall separating the two areas, it felt as if the store and park were one.

The coffee was as visually appealing. The staff prepared delicately my cappuccino and the latte art was nice. There was a downside to it though - a lukewarm drink. I expected my cappuccino on the hot side considering Blue Bottle originated from the US where coffee is usually served hot.

I didn’t have to wait to be seated at this branch and I had a table for two all to myself. I was also able to do what I intended to do here because of the conducive ambience. With these plus the nice view and delicious (yet warm) coffee, I would say my overall dine-in experience was more...